Type of PICU experience for CRNA?

[newyorkrn, BSN, RN]

I'm a new grad and I have opportunities in either a Med-Surg PICU at a large children's hospital or another peds critical care position in a congenital heart cardiovascular care unit that's discharge to home. 

I know of RN's who have gotten into CRNA school with both units, but I'm just wondering if having actual PICU experience will be more beneficial, even though I may not get the cardiac experience, or if having cardiac critical care experience in a unit that may not be as acute (this is an assumption, as I talked to someone that was per diem there) would be more beneficial. 

Also in general, do you feel that PICU is sufficient experience for CRNA school. Thanks in advance for any and all advice!

[21rnna]

I know Columbia's faculty have a big background in PICU, and other schools definitely do accept it. 

[newyorkrn, BSN, RN]

On 3/27/2022 at 7:00 PM, 21rnna said:

I know Columbia's faculty have a big background in PICU, and other schools definitely do accept it. 

Thanks so much for that info!!

[picurn2021, BSN, RN]

pick whichever unit has the highest acuity and offers the most opportunities for new grads. you want to be seeing the sickest patients - intubated, sedated/paralyzed, multiple drips and lines, and devices (ex: CRRT). some units won’t let new grad take intubated patients or devices the first year. keep that in mind and ask what kind of patients you will be taking and which devices they’ll let you train to

[newyorkrn, BSN, RN]

On 4/7/2022 at 2:23 AM, picurn2021 said:

pick whichever unit has the highest acuity and offers the most opportunities for new grads. you want to be seeing the sickest patients - intubated, sedated/paralyzed, multiple drips and lines, and devices (ex: CRRT). some units won’t let new grad take intubated patients or devices the first year. keep that in mind and ask what kind of patients you will be taking and which devices they’ll let you train to

Thank you! I appreciate your thoughts!